Italian Turkey Burgers
Try this Italian Turkey Burgers recipe.
Try this Italian Turkey Burgers recipe.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1/3 cup panko bread crumbs
- 1 teaspoon fennel seeds
- 1 red bell pepper thinly sliced
- 1 large red onion halved and thinly sliced
- 8 ounces mozzarella cheese
- 1 pound 99% lean ground turkey
- 1 pound sweet or spicy turkey sausage casings removed (i used spicy)
- 2 teaspoons ground basil
- 2 teaspoons ground oregano
- 8 ounces asiago cheese
- 6 whole wheat hamburger buns for serving
- 1 green bell pepper thinly sliced
- Carbohydrate 14.091312561186 g
- Cholesterol 54.0530907106667 mg
- Fat 20.1063092232284 g
- Fiber 2.01782813683153 g
- Protein 26.7412910541859 g
- Saturated Fat 11.4316426999139 g
- Serving Size 1 1 burger (332g)
- Sodium 358.573345116829 mg
- Sugar 12.0734844243545 g
- Trans Fat 1.13895268035097 g
- Calories 344 calories
Step-by-step
- Preheat a grill to medium high.
- To make the burgers, place the ground turkey, turkey sausage, bread crumbs, basil, oregano, fennel, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes in a large mixing bowl and lightly combine with your fingers.
- Make sure the ingredients are fairly evenly incorporated, but do not compact the meat.
- Shape into 6 patties.
- Grill on medium high until the bottoms are browned (about 5 minutes), then flip and continue grilling until cooked through, about 5 additional minutes.
- When the burgers are almost ready, top with mozzarella and Asiago cheeses.
- For the veggies: Place the veggie slices in a medium bowl.
- Drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Toss to coat.
- Place in a grill basket and grill until softened and lightly charred, about 8 minutes, turning the veggies often so that they do not burn.
- Toast the buns as desired.
- Serve burgers on the buns, topped with grilled veggies.
- Enjoy immediately.
Italian Turkey Burgers: A Flavorful Summertime Treat
Summer is the perfect time for grilling, and these Italian Turkey Burgers are a fantastic way to elevate your BBQ game. As a busy working mom, I'm always looking for recipes that are both delicious and quick to make. These burgers fit the bill perfectly. They’re packed with flavor, healthy, and come together in a flash. Forget those bland, dry turkey burgers of the past – this recipe delivers a juicy, satisfying experience that even the pickiest eaters will love.
The combination of lean ground turkey and spicy turkey sausage provides a wonderful balance of lean protein and satisfying richness. I love using spicy sausage; it adds a delightful kick that cuts through the richness of the cheese. The addition of fresh basil and oregano gives a bright, herbaceous note that complements the other flavors perfectly. The panko breadcrumbs add a lovely texture and help keep the burgers moist. And don't forget the veggies! Grilling the bell peppers and onions adds a smoky sweetness that's simply irresistible.
What sets these burgers apart is the balance of flavors. The savory turkey is complemented by the pungent fennel, the bright herbs, and the sharp bite of the Asiago and mozzarella cheeses. The slight heat from the red pepper flakes adds a touch of excitement without being overpowering. The whole wheat buns add a nice touch of wholesomeness, but you can certainly use your favorite type of bun.
Making the Burgers: The process is incredibly straightforward. Simply combine all the burger ingredients in a bowl, gently mix, and form into patties. Don't overmix; a slightly loose mixture helps keep the burgers juicy. Grilling the patties is a breeze. About 5 minutes per side should do the trick, depending on your grill's heat and the thickness of your patties. Add the cheese during the last few minutes of grilling for that melty, gooey goodness.
Grilling the Veggies: Grilling the vegetables is an equally simple process. I like to use a grill basket to keep them from falling through the grates. Toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper, and let them char slightly for a delicious smoky flavor. The sweetness of the peppers balances the savory burgers perfectly.
Serving Suggestions: These burgers are incredibly versatile. They're fantastic on their own, but you can also add your favorite burger toppings. Some suggestions include lettuce, tomato, onion, and a creamy avocado mayo. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a dollop of pesto for an extra burst of flavor. The beauty of these burgers is that you can customize them to your liking.
Beyond the Grill: While grilling is the ideal method for these burgers, you can easily cook them in a skillet on the stovetop if you don't have access to a grill. Simply heat a little olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook the patties until browned and cooked through, flipping halfway through. This method is great for weeknight dinners when you're short on time.
These Italian Turkey Burgers are a delicious and healthy option for a summer barbecue, a family dinner, or a casual get-together with friends. They’re easy to make, packed with flavor, and sure to impress. So fire up the grill (or your skillet), gather your ingredients, and get ready for a culinary adventure! This recipe has become a staple in my house, and I'm confident it will become a favorite in yours too.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños for extra heat.
- Herb variations: Experiment with different herbs, such as rosemary, thyme, or parsley.
- Cheese variations: Try using provolone, fontina, or even a blend of cheeses.
- Add some crunch: Incorporate some chopped walnuts or pecans into the burger mixture.
- Make it a meal: Serve the burgers with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or sweet potato fries.
Enjoy!
